Ultimate Guide to Exploring the Shimanami Kaido by Scooter: Routes, Tolls, and Travel Tips
- shimariderst
- Sep 12
- 17 min read
Updated: Sep 26
Introduction
The Shimanami Kaido is world-famous as a “cyclist’s paradise,” but did you know that exploring it by scooter is just as rewarding—if not more convenient?
Cycling allows you to feel the sea breeze, while driving a car lets you relax and enjoy the views. But during peak travel seasons, traffic jams often make car trips stressful.
A scooter strikes the perfect balance:
You can easily stop for photos or local food.
Enjoy the breathtaking views from the bridges without the sweat of cycling.
Travel faster than a bicycle but still close enough to experience the islands at a human scale.
For international travelers, scooters are an especially smart option because you won’t need the stamina of long-distance cycling, and you can avoid the costs and hassles of renting a car.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—routes, tolls, ferry options, and model itineraries—so you can confidently plan your first scooter trip across the Shimanami Kaido.
▼INDEX
What Is the Shimanami Kaido?
Basic Overview
The Shimanami Kaido is a scenic 70 km route linking Onomichi (Hiroshima Pref.) and Imabari (Ehime Pref.) across the Seto Inland Sea.
From the Onomichi side, you’ll cross six islands—Mukaishima, Innoshima, Ikuchijima, Omishima, Hakatajima, and Oshima—via seven bridges before reaching Imabari. The sea is almost always in view, and each bridge has a distinct silhouette and photo-worthy vantage points.
Among them, the panorama from the Kurushima-Kaikyō Bridge is a show-stopper for riders.
A World-Class Scenic Route
Internationally known as a “cyclist’s paradise”, the Shimanami Kaido attracts riders from around the world. But it’s also an exceptional route for scooters, offering the open-air joy of cycling with the comfort and range of a motorized ride.
Traveler tip: The route is beautiful in all seasons. Spring (Mar–May) and autumn (Oct–Nov) have mild temperatures; summer is gorgeous but hot and humid—plan hydration stops; winter is rideable with layers and gloves.
Did You Know? It’s Also a Scooter Paradise
Dedicated “Moped Lanes” for 125cc and Under
While cars use the expressway and cyclists have their blue-line route, many bridges also feature dedicated lanes/approaches for scooters up to 125cc.
These are often positioned on the outer edge of the bridge structure, giving you the sensation of gliding over the sea—a unique experience that’s rare even in Japan and a major reason the Shimanami Kaido is beloved by scooter riders.
Good to know: In Japan, “moped/scooter” in this context means up to 125cc for the dedicated approaches. 125cc+ (including large motorcycles) must use the same route as cars on the expressway sections and cannot enter the moped-only paths.
Why Scooters Are Ideal on the Shimanami Kaido
1) Conquer the Climbs Without the Burn
Bridges connect from elevated points on each island, so there’s more uphill/downhill than first-time visitors expect. Cyclists repeat seven climbs one way; many are surprised and cut trips short.With a scooter, it’s throttle-and-go—no stamina worries, and with typical fuel range around ~200 km, range anxiety is minimal. You can explore well beyond the main blue line into side roads, viewpoints, and hidden cafés.
Sensory bonuses you’ll notice on a scooter: the salt air, the sound of the waves, and seasonal scents (like neroli in spring in the lemon valleys).
2) Skip the Jams & Parking Hassles
Peak seasons (like Golden Week, Obon, New Year holidays) see heavy traffic. Access roads to top viewpoints like Kirosan Observatory can clog with cars and have limited parking at the summit.
Scooters slip through mountain roads more easily and park in the designated bike areas, saving time and stress—especially helpful around Onomichi, where car parking is limited and pricey.
3) Eat, Shop, Repeat—No Problem
From Onomichi ramen to Setoda lemon treats, seafood bowls, gelato, and more—the food scene spans Hiroshima to Ehime specialties.
Unlike cycling, you won’t have to “hold back” after a big lunch, and with scooter carry capacity, it’s easy to pick up souvenirs as you go.
Author’s take: The pace on a 50cc–125cc scooter is perfect for soaking in views—faster than a bicycle, closer than a car.
Author’s take: The pace on a 50cc–125cc scooter is perfect for soaking in views—faster than a bicycle, closer than a car.
Which Routes Do Scooters Take?
Different from Cars, Closer Than Bicycles
For cars, the Shimanami Kaido is essentially an expressway: one continuous highway with interchanges on each island. Drivers often bypass much of the island scenery unless they exit intentionally.
Scooters (and bicycles) follow a different rhythm:
You ride through the towns and countryside of each island,
then use dedicated moped/cyclist entrances to access the bridges,
and repeat the process island by island.
This slower but immersive pattern means you’ll naturally encounter lemon orchards on slopes, quiet fishing ports, tiny cafés, and roadside markets that car travelers usually miss. For scooter riders, the journey itself is sightseeing.
Traveler insight: Many overseas visitors assume the whole route is just one big highway. In reality, scooters weave through local island life—it’s part of the magic.
Tolls: Affordable and Simple
For cars, every bridge crossing adds up in highway tolls.
Scooters pay small tolls (¥50–¥200 per bridge) at coin boxes, making the overall cost much lower. (We’ll cover details and prepaid tickets in the “Tolls & Tickets” section.)
What About Larger Motorcycles?
Scooters 125cc and under can use the scenic dedicated paths.
Larger motorcycles (126cc and up) cannot enter those paths; they must stick to the car/expressway routes.
This is why even experienced bikers sometimes switch to a rental scooter at Shimanami—it’s the only way to ride those famous seaside lanes.
Where Are the Scooter-Only Entrances?
Here’s a key point for newcomers:
Car interchanges and scooter entrances are in completely different locations. First-timers often get confused, but don’t worry—here are three reliable ways to find the right entry.
1) Follow the Blue Line
Between JR Onomichi Station and JR Imabari Station, a bold blue line is painted on the road surface.
It’s the official navigation aid for cyclists, but works perfectly for scooters too.
The line guides you directly to the scooter/cyclist entrances for each bridge.
You’ll also see frequent markers like “Imabari XX km” or “Onomichi XX km” so you know which direction you’re heading.
Think of it as your built-in GPS painted on the ground.
2) Use Google Maps Smartly
If you just enter a car route in Google Maps, it will default to the expressway (where scooters can’t go). Instead, try this trick when navigating to the next bridge:
Pin a point on the next island.
Select “Walking Route” (not driving).
The walking route will guide you to the correct scooter/cyclist entrance. Once you’re on the island again, switch back to car mode for faster directions to inland destinations.
Pro tip: Some entrances split after the gate (one for bikes, one for scooters).
Following “walking mode” ensures you don’t miss the right turn.
3) Use a Dedicated Scooter Entrance Map
If you don’t want to fiddle with maps each time, check out the custom Google MyMap of scooter entrances created by Shima Rider rental scooter.
You can preview the entrances before your trip and save them to your phone—super handy if your data connection is spotty on the road.
Extra Tips for International Travelers (applies to Sections 3–4)
Language barrier: Entrance signs are usually bilingual (Japanese + English), but they’re sometimes small. Using these tips will reduces stress.
Cash at entrances: No change machines, no card readers—keep ¥50 and ¥100 coins ready.
How Long Does It Take to Ride the Shimanami Kaido by Scooter?
Non-Stop: About 3 Hours
If you ride directly from Onomichi to Imabari without breaks, it takes roughly 3 hours.
But realistically, almost nobody does it straight through—you’ll want to stop for photos, food, or scenic detours.
With Sightseeing: 5–6 Hours Minimum
Most travelers take at least 5–6 hours, including rest stops, meals, and photo ops.
Photography enthusiasts → Expect closer to 6+ hours with frequent stops.
Foodies → A full-day trip is best if you want to try ramen, seafood, gelato, and café hopping.
Leisure travelers → Consider spreading it over 2 days with 1 overnight stay for a relaxed pace.
Recommendation: A 1-night trip is ideal. You can enjoy the ride without rushing, and in the evening, relax over fresh Seto Inland Sea seafood or local sake.。
Sample Model Itineraries
Route: Onomichi → Mukaishima → Omishima (and back)
Highlights: Lemon orchards, local cafés, Tatara Bridge (famous photo spot)
Perfect if you want just a taste of the islands before returning to Onomichi.
Cross the Entire Shimanami Kaido in One Day: High-Energy Scooter Ride from Mukaishima to Imabari (One-Way Crossing)
Route: Onomichi → Imabari (all the way in 1 day)
Highlights: Cross all 7 bridges in a single trip, stop at Kirosan Observatory, sample fresh seafood bowl (Kaisen don) or Imabari Yakibuta Tamago Meshi along the way.
Great for ambitious travelers with limited time.
The Ultimate 2-Day Shimanami Scooter Journey— Scenic Views & Local Eats from Imabari to Onomichi (2days/ Highly recomended)
Route: Imabari ⇔ Onomichi (overnight somewhere mid-route, e.g., Omishima or Ikuchijima)
Highlights: Try both prefectures’ regional foods, visit Ōyamazumi Shrine, enjoy sunset or sunrise views, and take your time at island cafés.
Best for travelers who want to blend riding, sightseeing, and local stays.
Extra Notes for International Visitors
Accommodation options: You’ll find guesthouses, ryokan, and small hotels on Omishima and Ikuchijima. Booking in advance is essential during weekends and holidays.
Night riding not advised: Bridges can be windy and poorly lit for scooters. Plan to finish your day’s ride before sunset.
Tolls & Scooter Tickets: Complete Guide
How Much Are Scooter Tolls?
Tolls (Scooter vs. Car)
Scooter tolls are much cheaper than cars.
For scooters and small bikes up to 125cc, tolls range from ¥50 to ¥200 per bridge, depending on the span.
Bridge | Island | Scooter | Car (High way) |
Onomichi bridge | Onomichi ⇔ Mukaishima | 無料 | 310 yen |
Innoshima bridge | Mukaishima ⇔ Innoshima | 50 yen | 510 yen |
Ikuchi bridge | Innoshima ⇔ Ikuchi Island | 50 yen | 290 yen |
Tatara bridge | Ikuchi Island ⇔ Omishima | 100 yen | 510 yen |
Omishima bridge | Omishima ⇔ Hakata Island | 50 yen | 400 yen |
Hakata Oshima bridge | Hakata Island ⇔ Ohsima | 50 yen | 400 yen |
Kurushima bridge | Ohshima ⇔ Imabari | 200 yen | 900 yen |
Car (ETC toll): Around ¥2,450 one-way (as of Sept 2025)
How Do You Pay?
At the entrance to each bridge, you’ll find a small unmanned toll box (it really looks like a donation box).
Drop in coins or use a prepaid scooter ticket (explained below).
No change, no staff, no machines.
No electronic payment (Suica, credit card, etc.).
Traveler warning: Japan is still cash-heavy in rural areas. Carry coins (¥50 & ¥100) before starting your ride.
Prepaid “Scooter Tickets”
If you don’t want to juggle coins at every bridge, buy a Shimanami Kaido Scooter Ticket Booklet in advance.
One booklet = 10 tickets (¥50 each) = ¥500 total.
Use them like coupons: e.g., if a bridge toll is ¥100, drop in 2 tickets.
Riding the whole route one-way (Onomichi → Imabari) costs exactly ¥500.
For a round trip, buy 2 booklets.
【Where to Buy Tickets】
販売場所 | Google Map リンク |
Senkoji Rope way | |
JR Onomichi Station Tourist Information Center | |
Setoda Tourist Information | |
Sunrise Itoyama | |
Highway Toll offices (Car) |
Onomichi side: JR Onomichi Station Tourist Information Center (most convenient if arriving by train).
Imabari side: Sunrise Itoyama (popular with cyclists and scooter riders).
Also available at: Senkōji Ropeway, Setoda Tourist Info, and toll offices along the route.
👉 If you’re starting from Onomichi via train:
Arrive at JR Onomichi Station.
Buy a scooter ticket booklet at the tourist info desk.
Take the short ferry (¥100 + ¥10 for scooter) to Mukaishima.
Pick up your rental scooter at the shop.
👉 If you’re starting from Imabari via train:
Arrive at JR Imabari Station.
Change to JR Hashihama Station.
Walk 5 min to the rental shop.
Buy a booklet at Sunrise Itoyama before crossing the Kurushima-Kaikyō Bridge.
Extra Notes for International Travelers
Language barrier: Staff at Onomichi and Imabari tourist centers usually speak basic English.
Cash only: Prepare ¥1,000 bills and coins before leaving a big city—ATMs on the islands are limited.
No refunds: Unused tickets cannot be exchanged back for cash.
Souvenir factor: Many travelers keep one unused ticket as a small keepsake—it even looks like a retro Japanese bus ticket.
Can You Take a Scooter on a Ferry?
Currently, there is no single ferry that runs the entire Onomichi–Imabari route.
However, several short ferry connections are extremely useful for scooter travelers. They save time, help avoid traffic, or open up side trips to lesser-known islands. Here are the key ones:
1) Onomichi ⇔ Mukaishima: The Quick Start Ferry
Instead of riding across the first bridge, the easiest and most popular way to begin is by ferry from Onomichi City to Mukaishima.
Route: From the ferry pier directly in front of JR Onomichi Station
Ride time: ~5 minutes (often called “Japan’s shortest sea voyage”)
Cost:
Passenger: ¥100
Scooter (≤125cc): +¥10 → Total ¥110
Schedule:
Runs every ~15 minutes from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm
During festivals (e.g., Onomichi fireworks, Bettcha Matsuri), extra boats run even more frequently.
Why use it?
It’s cheaper and faster than trying to cross via car bridge.
Avoids traffic jams leaving Onomichi.
Locals use it daily—it’s part of the authentic Shimanami experience.
⚠ Note: No electronic payment—coins only. Be prepared before boarding.
Access to the “Yumeshima Kaido” (Hidden Island Route)
In 2022, the Iwakuro Bridge opened, linking four small islands—Iwagijima, Ikunajima, Sashima, and Yugejima. Collectively they’re called the Yumeshima Kaido, a nostalgic, slower-paced alternative to the main Shimanami Kaido.
Recommended access:
From Innoshima (Habu Port) to Ikunajima (Tateishi Port) via the Ikuna Ferry.
Once across, you can ride freely among the Yumeshima islands.
Why go?
Fewer tourists, more “local Japan” vibes.
Famous treats: Iwagijima sweet potato confections, seaside hot springs like Inland Sea Resort Fespa on Yugejima.
Even Shimanami locals often escape here for a more peaceful ride.
Shortcut Option: Onomichi ⇔ Ikuchijima (Passenger Boat Only)
If you’re short on time or caught in bad weather, consider skipping the early sections and starting from Ikuchijima.
Route: Onomichi Waterfront → Setoda Port (Ikuchijima)
Operator: Setouchi Cruising
Ride time: About 40 minutes
Note: Scooters cannot board, but you can rent one at Shima Rider Setoda (Ikuchijima) after arriving.
This option lets you:
Visit Kosanjī Temple and the art spot Hill of Hope right away.
Base your ride in the middle islands, closer to highlights like Ōyamazumi Shrine (Ōmishima) or Kirosan Observatory (Ōshima).
Extra Tips for International Visitors
Cash only: None of these local ferries accept credit cards or IC cards (Suica, Pasmo). Always carry coins and small bills.
Frequency: Japanese local ferries rarely require reservations. They shuttle back and forth all day—very traveler-friendly.
Which Starting Point Is Better: Onomichi or Imabari?
The Short Answer
Start from Onomichi (Hiroshima side): If you’re arriving by bullet train (Shinkansen), car from the mainland, or via Hiroshima Airport.
Start from Imabari (Ehime side): If you’re flying into Matsuyama Airport or already traveling in Shikoku.
Both options have their charm—the best choice depends on your overall Japan itinerary.
Starting from Onomichi (Mainland / Hiroshima Side)
Onomichi is the classic gateway to the Shimanami Kaido.
Best for: Travelers from Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Fukuoka—all well connected by Shinkansen.
Important note: There are two “Onomichi stations.”
Shin-Onomichi Station (Shinkansen stop) – not directly connected to downtown.
JR Onomichi Station (local line) – located in the city center.
👉 The easiest route: Take the Shinkansen to Fukuyama Station, then transfer to a local JR train (20 min) to JR Onomichi Station.This way you arrive directly in central Onomichi, just steps from the ferry pier to Mukaishima.
Why Onomichi?
You can explore Onomichi’s temple walk, Senkōji Temple, retro shopping streets before or after your ride.
Rental shops "Shima Rider Mukaishima" are very close and beginner-friendly.
Starting from Imabari (Shikoku / Ehime Side)
If you’re coming from Tokyo, Nagoya, or Kansai by plane, consider flying into Matsuyama Airport. From there, it’s about 1 hour by bus/train to Imabari.
Why Imabari?
You’ll start with Kurushima-Kaikyō Bridge, the longest suspension bridge in the world for both cars and bikes—instant wow factor.
Easy access to the scenic Kirosan Observatory.
Combine your ride with a visit to Dōgo Onsen in Matsuyama, one of Japan’s oldest hot spring towns.
Choosing a Rental Location
Onomichi side (Shima Rider Mukaishima):
Best for beginners. Staff provide in-person scooter tips and even offer three-wheeled scooters for extra stability.
Wide range of models: 50cc mopeds, 110cc Super Cub, 125cc scooters (NMAX, PCX), and more.
Two-up riding (with passenger) is allowed on many 125cc models.
Easy access: Take the ferry from JR Onomichi Station (5 min) + short walk.
Imabari side (Shima Rider Imabari)
Convenient for travelers coming from Shikoku or flying via Matsuyama Airport.
Quick access to top attractions (Kurushima-Kaikyō Bridge, Kirosan Observatory).
Also offers a selection of scooters and small bikes.
Traveler Tips One-way rentals (Drop-off option): Unlike most rental shops in Japan, Shima Rider uniquely offers one-way rentals. You can start your journey in Onomichi and return the scooter in Imabari (or vice versa). This flexibility means you don’t have to ride the same route back, and you can continue your trip onward to places like Matsuyama’s Dōgo Onsen or Hiroshima/Miyajima without doubling back.
Parking: Shima Rider Mukaishima provides free parking for rental customers (advance reservation required, limited spaces available).
Flexibility: Choose your starting point based on your travel plan. If you’re visiting Hiroshima or Miyajima, start from Onomichi. If you’re already exploring Shikoku, Imabari makes a perfect gateway.
Which Scooter Should You Choose: 50cc or 125cc?
50cc (Class 1 Moped)
License requirement: Can be driven with a regular driver’s license + IDP (International Driving Permit). No special motorcycle license needed.
Top speed: 30 km/h (by law in Japan).
Capacity: Single rider only (no passengers allowed).
Perfect for:
Travelers who want to try the Shimanami Kaido but aren’t confident about cycling long distances.
Those who want to cross the entire route at a relaxed pace without worrying about stamina.
Short, casual sightseeing where maneuverability is key.
Pros:
Easy to handle for beginners.
“Slow speed” is actually ideal—lets you soak in the scenery instead of rushing past.
Light and agile, great for narrow roads and island detours.
51–125cc (Class 2 Moped / Small Scooter)
・License requirement: Requires an IDP with Category A (motorcycle) authorization, under the 1949 Geneva Convention.
Top speed: Faster than 50cc, so you’ll save time on longer rides.
Capacity: Two-up riding allowed (can carry a passenger).
Perfect for:
Experienced riders or those who usually ride medium/large bikes.
Travelers who want extra comfort and speed margin.
Couples or friends who want to ride together.
Pros:
Handles longer distances more comfortably.
Sufficient storage and power for carrying souvenirs or riding with a passenger.
Popular models include Honda PCX and Yamaha NMAX, both stylish and practical.
Final Recommendation
First-time riders or casual explorers: Go with a 50cc scooter. It’s beginner-friendly, legal with a standard IDP, and the slower speed is perfectly matched to the Shimanami’s scenic pace.
Couples, experienced riders, or those short on time: A 125cc scooter is the best choice. You’ll appreciate the extra power, the ability to carry a passenger, and the smoother ride for a full-day or multi-day trip.
👉 In short: “If you want relaxed and simple, choose 50cc. If you want comfort, speed, or two-up riding, choose 125cc.”
For International Riders: Licenses & Traffic Rules
Licensing Requirements
To ride a scooter legally in Japan, you must have the correct license. Please read carefully before your trip:
Valid IDP only: Japan accepts only the International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention.
An IDP issued under the 1968 Vienna Convention is NOT valid in Japan, even if it works in other countries.
Categories:
Category B (car): Allows you to ride a 50cc scooter (single rider only).
Category A (motorcycle): Required to ride a 51–125cc scooter.
Important: You must obtain the correct IDP before leaving your home country. It cannot be issued once you are already in Japan.
Non-Geneva countries (e.g., Taiwan): Riders must prepare an official Japanese translation of their driver’s license, available through JAF (Japan Automobile Federation) or the Japanese embassy/consulate.
Don’t forget your passport: It must be carried together with your IDP or license translation.
Common mistake: Some travelers arrive with the wrong IDP (Vienna type) and are unable to ride at all. Double-check before departure!
Traffic Rules to Know Before You Ride
Japan’s road rules may feel different from your home country. Here are the key points for scooter riders:
Left-side driving: Vehicles keep to the left in Japan. Take extra care when making turns if you’re used to right-side traffic.
Helmet required by law: Riding without a helmet is strictly prohibited.
Speed limits:
50cc scooters: Maximum 30 km/h (about 18 mph). This may feel slow, but the rule is enforced strictly.
Police regularly check for speeding violations, especially on bridges and in town areas.
Road signs: Most signs use symbols, but some have little or no English. Key ones to remember:
止まれ (Tomare) = STOP – red, triangular sign.
徐行 (Jokō) = SLOW / Proceed with caution.
Passengers:
50cc scooters: No passengers allowed.
110cc & 125cc scooters (available at Shima Rider): Two-up riding is permitted, but only if you have Category A on your IDP.
No drinking and riding: Japan’s legal alcohol limit is just 0.03% blood alcohol concentration (far stricter than many countries). Even one drink can put you over the limit and lead to immediate penalties.
Important: Documents You Must Carry
When renting and riding a scooter in Japan, you must carry the original physical documents—copies or digital photos are not accepted. The required documents are:
Your valid driver’s license from your home country
Your passport
Your International Driving Permit (IDP) issued under the 1949 Geneva Convention, or the official Japanese translation of your license (for travelers from non-Geneva countries such as Taiwan)
⚠️ Please note: Japanese law requires you to have these original documents with you at all times while riding. Police checks can be strict, and failing to present the originals may result in fines or being unable to continue your trip.
Why Rent with Shima Rider rental scooter?
At this point, let us proudly introduce the perks of renting with Shima Rider—because choosing the right rental shop can make or break your Shimanami Kaido trip.
1. Wide Range of Scooters
From stylish 50cc mopeds to comfortable 125cc scooters, we have something for everyone:
Vino (50cc): Colorful, Instagram-worthy, and fun for solo riders.
Super Cub (110cc): A Japanese classic, reliable and nostalgic.
Yamaha NMAX / Honda PCX (125cc): Perfect for two-up riding, smooth and powerful for longer trips.
Three-wheeled scooters (Gyro X, Gyro Canopy): Extremely stable and beginner-friendly.
All models are carefully maintained for long-distance riding, with up to 200 km of range on a full tank.
2. Fully Equipped as Standard
No need to worry about extras—we include everything you need:
Helmet
Smartphone holder
USB charging port
Full tank at departure (no need to refuel on return)
Insurance coverage & “tip over insurase” plan unique to Shima Rider
Free cancellation on rainy days
These thoughtful add-ons come from years of feedback from riders—both Japanese and international.
3. Convenient Locations & One-Way Option
We operate 5 rental bases along the Shimanami Kaido, with easy access from public transport.
Start from Onomichi (Mukaishima) or Imabari, or even from the middle islands.
Unique to Shima Rider: We offer one-way rentals (drop-off option).Example: Start in Onomichi, cross the entire route, and simply return your scooter in Imabari—then continue on to Matsuyama or Shikoku without riding back.
This flexibility is one of our biggest advantages over other shops.
4. Beginner-Friendly Support
Never ridden a scooter before? You’re not alone—many of our riders are first-timers.
On-site lesson (Mukaishima base): Friendly staff provide in-person guidance on controls, balance, and safety tips.
Practice space: Try riding in a safe area before heading onto the road.
Instructional videos: Sent by email before your trip, so you can review in advance.
We’re here to make sure even beginners can ride with confidence.
Easy to Book, Hard to Forget
Our scooters are popular during peak travel seasons (spring cherry blossoms, summer holidays, autumn foliage). Reservations can sell out quickly.
Once you hit the road, you’ll see why riders say: “One ride on the Shimanami Kaido is never enough—you’ll want to come back again and again.”
Your Shimanami Kaido Adventure Awaits
A scooter trip along the Shimanami Kaido is one of the best ways to experience the Seto Inland Sea:
More freedom than a bicycle.
Closer to the scenery than a car.
The perfect “in-between” speed to feel the islands with all five senses.
Whether it’s your first visit to Japan or your fifth trip back, the Shimanami Kaido offers something new every season—spring blossoms, summer sunshine, autumn colors, winter sunsets.
Every ride becomes a memory you’ll treasure.
Ready to Ride?
Scooters are in high demand during peak seasons (spring, summer, autumn holidays).
Reservations fill up quickly—especially for 125cc models and one-way rentals.
From All of Us at Shima Rider
We want your trip through the islands of Setouchi to be the highlight of your journey in Japan.When you pick up your scooter, please let us know if you found this guide helpful—it always makes our day!
We can’t wait to welcome you on the Shimanami Kaido.
See you on the islands! 🛵
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